How to Use Password-Protected Directories in Plesk

How to Use Password-Protected Directories in Plesk

Plesk allows you to password-protect specific folders on your website, requiring visitors to enter a username and password before accessing the content.

Step 1: Log in to Plesk

Go to:

https://your-server-ip:8443

Log in with your Plesk credentials.

Step 2: Go to Websites & Domains

• From the sidebar, click Websites & Domains

• Select the domain you want to work with

Step 3: Open Password-Protected Directories

• Under your domain’s tools, click Password-Protected Directories

• If not visible, expand the “Show More” menu

Step 4: Add Protected Directory

• Click Add Protected Directory

• Enter the path to the folder you want to protect (e.g., /private, /admin)

• Add a name for internal reference (e.g., “Admin Area”)

• Click OK

⚠️ If the folder doesn’t exist yet, Plesk will create it for you.

Step 5: Add Authorized User

After adding the folder:

• Click the directory name in the list

• Click Add User

• Enter a username and password

• Click OK

Now, only users with this login can access the protected folder via a web browser.

Step 6: Test Access

Open your browser and go to:

https://yourdomain.com/protected-folder

You should be prompted to enter the username and password.

Optional Tips

• You can add multiple users to the same protected directory

• Combine this with an .htaccess file for extra restrictions (optional for advanced users)

• To remove protection, simply delete the directory entry from Password-Protected Directories

Use Cases

• Securing admin panels

• Restricting staging environments

• Hiding files from public view